Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me! Where did that ever come from – it sure wasn’t the Bible!
I remember hearing that and saying that when I was a child but it’s far from the truth. Words can hurt or they can heal. Words can bring life or death, it’s up to us to decide.
Not every bad or dirty word is a cuss word. Words of criticism, gossip, ridicule, slander, embarrassment are all “bad’ words. Words that twist the truth to make me look better or less responsible for a wrong doing are “bad” words. Blaming someone else for my mistakes or faults are bad words.
“When you talk, don’t say anything bad. But say the good things that people need—whatever will help them grow stronger. Then what you say will be a blessing to those who hear you.” Ephesians 4:29 ERV
Disagreeing with someone or correcting them aren’t bad words unless they are meant to hurt or ridicule.
“Everything in the Scriptures is God’s Word. All of it is useful for teaching and helping people and for correcting them and showing them how to live. 17 The Scriptures train God’s servants to do all kinds of good deeds.” II Timothy 3:16-17 CEV
God’s words are useful and good. They instruct us, they encourage us and they correct us. The words we speak should be the same.
Have you been saying bad words? Have relationships been broken? Have you been hurt by words? Words hurt but words can also heal.
“By the power of his own word, he healed you and saved you from destruction. 21 You should praise the Lord for his love and for the wonderful things he does for all of us.” Psalm 107:20-21 CEV
“Your words can be as satisfying as fruit, as pleasing as the food that fills your stomach.21 The tongue can speak words that bring life or death. Those who love to talk must be ready to accept what it brings.” Proverbs 18:20-21 ERV
I need to remind myself daily to speak words of blessing and words of life! When I do, I show that I am learning from my Father!
Let your words be sweet and honest. Let them bring life. Have a wonderful weekend!
SPEAK LIFE! YES & AMEN!!